From the Healing Bridge Physical Therapy Spring 2004 Newsletter by Georgia Merrifield, PT, Pediatric Certified Specialist

Children are all different and develop at varying speeds, but there is a range within a normal schedule we can consult to be sure our children are developing well. For example, by 3 months of age, babies should have good control of their head. They should be able to sit up without support by 8 months, and walk by 18 months. Not crawling, by itself, is not cause for concern.

If your child is having some difficulty within the range of expected activities, you may wish to look into getting some help to teach your child how to move with more ease. Specific signs that could indicate a problem are stiff or rigid arms or legs, floppy or limp body posture, using one side of the body or only the arms to crawl or difficulty drinking a baby bottle or controlling liquids. In older children, signs that could indicate a problem are walking on their tiptoes, tripping or falling often, difficulty standing up from the floor, or difficulty going up stairs.

Remember, babies learn how to move by practicing. That means lots of time on the floor with safe furniture to pull up at and cruise around. The current recommendations call for babies to be placed on their backs to sleep, but during their waking hours, when they are supervised, they need to be placed on their stomachs so they may experience normal motor development.

If you have any concerns or questions about your child, please take advantage of our free 20 minute screenings. Call 318-7041 to schedule one for your child.